Welcome to USG’s Mentoring Program — Built on Flexibility, Community, and Empowerment

At USG, we believe mentoring should be meaningful, accessible, and student driven. Our program offers a flexible menu of mentoring experiences, allowing students to design a mentoring journey that fits their goals, meets them where they are, and supports them when they need it most.

Mentors in the program play a vital role in guiding students' professional development through career exploration, hands-on experiences, and network-building opportunities. Together, students and mentors will cultivate connections that foster growth, confidence, and career readiness.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more about how to get involved and start your mentoring experience below. 

STUDENT RESOURCES Students Join Today!    
MENTOR RESOURCES Professionals Join Today!

Mentoring Options

Traditional Mentoring

  • Minimum of 3, 1-hour sessions per semester based on career readiness topics/questions.

Career Insight Session (Flash Mentoring)

  • 1-hour session on topics such as mock interviewing, informational interviewing, general career consultation, or network building.

Mentor Circles

  • 1-hour discussion led by 4 subject matter experts, representing USG's 4 hubs, on career readiness topics. Breakout session for each hub halfway through the discussion for a more in-depth look on topic through the lens of the industry/hub.

Program Goals

  • Ensure students graduate career-ready through a menu that offers flexibility, builds a sense of community, incorporates USG's core values, and seeks to empower students to achieve their full potential.
  • Connect students with local/regional professionals from industry hubs for purposes of engaging in career exploration, career immersion, and career experiences.
  • Engage regional professionals to further develop and provide a talent pipeline.

General Guidelines

  • Attend a training (mentor)/orientation (student)
  • Respond to email/phone messages from your mentor/mentee in a timely manner
  • Be respectful of each other's time and commitments
  • Reach out to the Mentoring Program Manager if there are concerns, questions, or any other issue 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I join the Mentoring Program?
  • Mentors are empowerment tools. They help build networks, provide the push needed to take next steps, open doors, help one grow both professionally and personally. Do not just take our word for it though, read what recent participants have said: 
    • “I would highly recommend this program to others. As a first-generation college student, it has been immensely helpful in providing the guidance, resources, and support I needed to navigate my academic and professional journey. The program has been instrumental in helping me build confidence, develop essential skills, and create a clear path toward my goals.” (Yeeny A.P ’25)
    • “As a mentor, it is rewarding to see your mentee(s)grow and succeed, and the program provides both mentors and mentees with valuable tools and support. The opportunity to make a real difference in someone’s professional development is something I believe many would benefit from, and the connections made through the program are lasting and impactful.” (Stefanie W.)
What is the process?
  • Complete an application (once submitted, a confirmation email will be sent from the Mentoring Program):
  • Once paired, both the mentor and student will receive an introductory email.
  • Students should make the initial follow-up to mentor to introduce themselves and schedule their first meeting. (Email Template)
  • Review the Mentorship Agreement (this is to set goals and meeting preferences) together during the first meeting.  Signed agreements can be sent to usg-mentorshipprogram@umd.edu 
What is the deal with the surveys?
  • The surveys are meant to resemble performance evaluations. It gives you the ability to check-in and see if goals are being reached or if anything needs to be adjusted. It also provides feedback to the program. (Your feedback is greatly appreciated!)
Why is there a deadline to sign up for traditional mentoring?
  • Since the program is only a semester long (with the option to extend into further semesters), the deadline allows for participants to have enough time to meet and set/reach goals. Students who only request flash mentoring (1, 1-hour session) can be paired at any time during the semester.
Why was I paired with someone not in my industry or career path?
  • The pairing process is two-fold: What does the student need?; Who is the best mentor to help reach the student’s goal(s)?
  • Individuals in your industry or career path can assist you in learning more about options within the field, build your network, and identify programs, certifications, and professional groups that would benefit your growth within your career. However, they might not be the ones who can help you reach other goals such as career competencies, e.g., public speaking, written communication, leadership, etc.  A person outside can also give you the chance to learn more about other career options/industries that you might not have envisioned before (maybe you did not realize you could work in the medical field or did not give non-profit work a thought) and to build your network and social capital. 
I have been paired, now what?
  • Send your mentor an email introducing yourself and set up a time to meet. This might be the hardest part of the whole process but you can use the Email Template to begin the conversation.
I am having trouble reaching my mentor/mentee. Who do I notify?
CONTACT
Rebekah Taravella
Mentoring Program Manager

Biomedical Sciences &
Engineering Building, Room 3125
9631 Gudelsky Drive
Rockville, MD 20850
(301) 738-6306

More Information About Mentoring Program

Helpful Links

Mentor Application
Student Application
It provides opportunities for growth by connecting students with experienced mentors who offer guidance and support to their goals. The program also helps build confidence, expand professional networks, and clarify career aspirations. For anyone seeking personal and professional development, this program offers the resources and connections needed to succeed.
Olivia T. ('25)